“The integration with our business has been seamless and already we are benefiting from strategic synergies and although having mixed feelings with regards leaving I am doing so at an exciting time, with tremendous opportunities for the future.

“The company will be in excellent hands. It’s very special time in the company’s history,” he added.

Barry Coughlan, the group's European chief operating officer, said the “great work and total support from Brian and the team has enabled a fantastic integration of the business, which is now very much a part of the Rosti family”.

Coughlan said the group was “delighted” that Mann will continue to work with Rosti McKechnie over the course of the coming year.

“Brian has had a truly remarkable career with a formidable reputation within the industry and leaves Rosti McKechnie in a very strong position.

“The management, board and owners of Rosti would like to thank Brian for his support and wish him every success in retirement…and a truly deserved rest,” he added.

Hailing from Yorkshire, Mann was and remains a passionate and outspoken supporter of the UK plastics sector, in which he has worked for his entire career, rising to become divisional managing director of McKechnie Plastics Group, which Rosti bought for £30m in July last year.